Fourier Descriptors and their Applications in Biology [Paperback]

This book discusses the theory and the practice of using Fourier descriptors as a method for measuring the shape of whole, or parts of organisms.This book introduces Fourier descriptors as a method for measuring the shape of whole, or parts of organisms. Fourier descriptors can numerically describe the outline (shape) of irregular structures such as are commonly found in living organisms. The quantitative characterization of irregular forms is often a first step towards elucidation of the underlying biological processes. The first five chapters discuss the theory behind the use of Fourier descriptors and the remaining chapters show case studies of how they can be used in various fields of biology.This book introduces Fourier descriptors as a method for measuring the shape of whole, or parts of organisms. Fourier descriptors can numerically describe the outline (shape) of irregular structures such as are commonly found in living organisms. The quantitative characterization of irregular forms is often a first step towards elucidation of the underlying biological processes. The first five chapters discuss the theory behind the use of Fourier descriptors and the remaining chapters show case studies of how they can be used in various fields of biology.The purpose of this book is to introduce Fourier descriptors as a method for measuring the shape of whole, or parts of, organisms. Fourier descriptors refers to the utilization of Fourier analysis, primarily the Fourier series as a curve fitting technique, that can numerically describe the shape of irregular structures such as are commonly found in living organisms. The quantitative characterization of irregular forms is often the first step toward elucidation of the underlying biological processes, whether they be genetic, evolutionary, or functional. The first five chapters discuss the theory behind the use of Fourier descriptors and the remaining chapters show case studies of how they can be used in various fields of biol#d